CN113677231A

CN113677231A - Apparatus, system, and method for selecting a foot measurement for a finished footwear

Info

Publication number: CN113677231A
Application number: CN202080028254.8A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 泰罗·内瓦拉; 亚尔诺·丰森
Original assignee: Wright Setz
Current assignee: Wright Setz
Priority date: 2019-04-12
Filing date: 2020-04-03
Publication date: 2021-11-19
Also published as: FI20195301A1; KR20210149833A; EP3952689A4; WO2020208298A1; EP3952689C0; EP3952689A1; US20220183424A1; FI128512B; CA3135679A1; JP2022529141A; EP3952689B1

Abstract

The present invention allows for footmeasurements for selecting finished footwear that are efficient, easy, and cost effective to provide accurate results and that can be performed both at home and at the store. A foot measurement apparatus (120) includes a substrate (121) and a single perimeter measurement ring (123). The base plate (121) is used to measure the length (401) of the foot, and the elastic portion (123A) of the circumference measuring ring (123) is used to measure the circumference (402) around the ball of the metatarsals of the foot.

Description

Apparatus, system, and method for selecting a foot measurement for a finished footwear

Technical Field

This application relates generally to foot measurements. In particular, the present application relates to foot measurements to allow for accurate selection of a finished shoe or footwear.

Background

Over the years, shoemakers have developed and optimized lasts to present the interior space of a shoe in a manner that is as suitable as possible for most of the general public. Therefore, the proportions of the various lasts around the world today tend to fit approximately 80% of the general public.

These different lasts and their proportions provide the basis for shoe size systems or charts in use today. Examples of these shoe size systems or charts include french shoe size charts and british shoe size charts.

In general, the footwear industry includes the manufacture of finished (or industrial or non-customized) footwear and the manufacture of custom-fit, i.e., personalized, footwear.

For finished footwear, the purchaser needs to try on a sample of the footwear in a store or the like to find the appropriate size, or in the absence of a physical sample (such as in the case of on-line shopping), to measure his/her feet with sufficient accuracy to allow the most appropriate size to be determined.

Traditionally, foot measurements are made manually, for example using a shoemaker or shoemaker's tape measure. For example, the length of the foot may be measured and the measurements expressed in centimeters or a different size system. Correspondingly, the width of the same foot can be measured and indicate whether a wide or narrow fit should be selected. However, measuring the foot manually requires experience and skill to provide accurate results. In addition, modern internet shoppers and the like often consider measuring feet manually cumbersome and too time consuming.

More advanced systems may include scanning devices that scan the foot using a laser scanner or other machine vision tool. These systems are often very complex and expensive and, therefore, it is often only possible to have such devices in large stores or experts with investment reasons. In addition, there are systems that aim to construct three-dimensional (3D) models of the foot, for example via capturing a large number of images of the foot from different angles. Also, such systems are complex and expensive, and are often difficult and/or time consuming to use.

Thus, especially in the case of online shopping, the person purchasing new shoes does not go to any store for measurement or consultation, but rather tries to guess the correct size based on his/her own knowledge and/or past experience and in case it is not possible to try on the product before placing an order. In recent years, this has led to a significant increase in the return quantity of products ordered when a shopper receives the product and finds it out of position at all. Shoes that are returned and tried on at home are now not sold, so they represent a huge loss to the global shoe industry.

Accordingly, there is a need for foot measurements that provide accurate results efficiently, easily, and at low cost, and that can be taken both at home and at a store or the like for selecting a finished footwear.

Disclosure of Invention

An embodiment of an apparatus for foot measurement includes a base plate configured to receive a foot to be measured. The foot has a first length from the tip of the longest toe to the back of the heel and a first perimeter around the ball of the foot. The substrate has a front end and a rear end that are a first distance from each other. The first distance is greater than the first length. The rear end of the baseplate is configured to receive a rear portion of a heel of a foot to be measured, such that the first length can be determined based on a first distance and a second distance between the front end of the baseplate and a tip of a longest toe of the foot being located.

The apparatus also includes a single circumference measuring ring. The circumference measuring ring includes a first portion of an elastic material and a second portion of a substantially inelastic material. The circumference measuring ring has a second circumference that is smaller than the first circumference when the first portion is not stretched. The circumference measuring ring is configured to encircle the foot to be measured at a ball of the foot to enable a first circumference to be determined based on an amount of stretch of the first portion.

In one embodiment, alternatively or in addition to the embodiments described above, the first portion of the circumference measurement ring has a first visual characteristic and the second portion of the circumference measurement ring has a second visual characteristic, the first visual characteristic being visually distinguishable from the second visual characteristic.

In an embodiment, alternatively or in addition to the embodiments above, the first and second visual features comprise at least one of contrast, color, brightness, or pattern.

In an embodiment, alternatively or in addition to the embodiments above, the substrate includes one or more mating indicia to assist in at least one of determining the first length or determining the first perimeter.

In an embodiment, alternatively or in addition to the embodiments described above, the apparatus further comprises a heel support provided at a rear end of the base plate to assist in positioning the foot to be measured on the base plate.

An embodiment of a system for foot measurement comprises a device for foot measurement according to any of the embodiments described above. The system also includes a digital camera configured to capture an image of a foot positioned on the device. The image covers at least the stretched first portion of the circumference measuring ring and the second distance.

The system also includes a computing device including at least one processor and at least one memory including computer program code. The at least one memory and the computer program code configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the computing device at least to:

obtaining information about the first distance, the second circumference, and the unstretched length of the first portion;

receiving a captured image;

identifying a second distance and a stretched length of the first portion from the received image;

determining a first length based on a difference between the obtained first distance and the identified second distance; and

determining the first circumference based on a sum of the obtained difference between the obtained unstretched length of the first portion and the identified stretched length of the first portion and the obtained second circumference.

In an embodiment, alternatively or in addition to the above, the at least one memory and the computer program code are further configured to, with the at least one processor, cause the computing device to:

accessing a predetermined shoe size table;

comparing the determined first length and first perimeter to corresponding data in the accessed shoe size table; and is

A shoe size for the foot is determined based on the comparison.

in identifying the stretched length of the first portion, the difference between a first visual characteristic of the first portion of the circumference measurement ring and a second visual characteristic of the second portion of the circumference measurement ring is utilized to distinguish the first portion from the second portion.

An embodiment of the method of foot measurement comprises obtaining, by a computing device, information about a first distance, a second circumference, and an unstretched length of a first portion of a foot measurement apparatus according to any of the embodiments described above.

The method also includes receiving, at the computing device, an image of a foot positioned on the apparatus captured using the digital camera, the image covering at least the stretched first portion of the circumference measuring ring and the second distance.

The method also includes identifying, by the computing device, the second distance and the stretched length of the first portion from the received image.

The method also includes determining, by the computing device, a first length based on a difference between the obtained first distance and the identified second distance.

The method also includes determining, by the computing device, a first perimeter based on a sum of the obtained difference between the obtained unstretched length of the first portion and the identified stretched length of the first portion and the obtained second perimeter.

In an embodiment, alternatively or in addition to the above embodiments, the method further comprises:

accessing, by a computing device, a predetermined shoe size table;

comparing, by the computing device, the determined first length and first perimeter to corresponding data in the accessed shoe size table; and is

Determining, by the computing device, a shoe size of the foot based on the comparison.

In an embodiment, alternatively or in addition to the embodiments above, the identifying of the stretched length of the first portion comprises distinguishing the first portion from the second portion using a difference between a first visual characteristic of the first portion of the circumference measurement ring and a second visual characteristic of the second portion of the circumference measurement ring.

At least some of the embodiments allow for footmeasurements for selecting a finished footwear that are effective, easy, and low cost to provide accurate results and that can be performed both at home and at a store or the like.

At least some of the embodiments allow for foot measurements for selecting a finished footwear that provides accurate results at low cost, since the apparatus has a simple structure and the apparatus can be made of low cost materials. Further, because the apparatus for foot measurement may be used with commonly available smartphones having digital cameras, without the need for expensive laser scanners or the like, at least some of the embodiments allow for foot measurements for selecting finished footwear that provide accurate results at low cost. Furthermore, at least some of the embodiments allow for simple and low cost mailing of the footmeasuring device to the consumer in a flat form, e.g., packed in an envelope or the like, so that the consumer can then easily fold the footmeasuring device into shape for use. Further, at least some of the embodiments allow for distribution of software needed in the disclosed system and method of footage via readily available smartphone software distribution systems (such as various application stores, etc.).

Because the disclosed apparatus, systems, and methods of foot measurement require measuring a single perimeter indicator in addition to measuring the length of the foot, at least some of the embodiments allow for foot measurements for selecting a finished footwear that provides accurate results in an efficient and easy manner. Further, because the disclosed apparatus, systems, and methods of footmeasurements only require the capture of a single two-dimensional image using a digital camera, at least some of the embodiments allow for footmeasurements for selecting a finished footwear that provide accurate results in an efficient and easy and quick manner.

It is possible to use only two indices and still obtain accurate results because the selected index is a defined index in each last and shoe size system worldwide. All other criteria used in the last or shoe size system are automatically adapted to these two selected criteria sufficient for the purpose of selecting finished footwear. Thus, at least some of the embodiments also allow for globally applicable foot measurements for selecting finished footwear that provide accurate results.

Drawings

The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide a further understanding of the invention and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and together with the description help to explain the principles of the invention. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 illustrates an example system in which various aspects of the present disclosure may be implemented;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a computing device capable of implementing example embodiments described herein;

FIG. 3A illustrates a view of an apparatus capable of implementing foot measurements of example embodiments described herein;

FIG. 3B illustrates another view of a device capable of implementing foot measurements of the example embodiments described herein;

FIG. 4 illustrates an example view of a foot measurement;

FIG. 5 illustrates an example flow chart of a method of foot measurement according to an example embodiment.

FIG. 6 illustrates an example diagram of a shoe size system; and

fig. 7 shows an example of a last.

In the drawings like reference numerals are used to indicate like parts.

Detailed Description

Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present invention, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The detailed description provided below in connection with the appended drawings is intended as a description of the present examples and is not intended to represent the only forms in which the present examples may be constructed or utilized. The description sets forth the functions of the example and the sequence of steps for constructing and operating the example. However, the same or equivalent functions and sequences may be accomplished by different examples.

Industrial (or finished or non-custom) footwear or shoes are made using industrial lasts. The last creates an interior volume for the shoe. Industrial lasts are a long-term evolving result. For decades, the goal of industrial lasts has been that they will fit and cover as much as possible the type for which the shoe model is intended.

It has been found that in 100% of potential consumers, typically about 80% of people have a uniform foot to fit a normal industrial last shape to them. The remaining, i.e. 20%, includes two categories: those who have differences and/or problems with their feet such that they must seek customized or orthopedic shoes, as well as those who are intermediate between normal and orthopedic needs. In other words, normal industrially manufactured shoes are a compromise for serving 80% of people with normal feet.

Thus, shoes in normal shoe shops are prepared for consumers with normal feet, and the basic shape is the result of this evolution. The basic shape of the industrial last is graded into different sizes by selecting a known standard sizing system which plots the growth of length and circumference as a function of size.

The shoe is produced on a last and delivered to a shop. The consumer goes to the store looking for style and size. Style is what he/she likes, while size is what he/she thinks might fit in his/her feet. Shoes are selected by trying multiple sizes and styles. In fact, shoe sizes may vary depending on the manufacturer and/or country from which the product is derived. This is the process that conventional shoes choose to perform. This is very time consuming and laborious and is why the process is difficult to arrange via the internet.

The consumer makes the decision after being attracted to the shoe type/style and having a length and circumference ratio that fits the particular consumer's foot. With respect to length, the footwear must be longer than the foot. The circumference measurement of the ball of the foot around the ball of the foot is responsible for the feel and usability of the shoe.

There are three basic types of consumers:

1) and (4) standard. Here, the relationship between foot length and circumference is standard and conforms to the International last Scale/size Table. The shoe selection is easy.

2) Short length/large circumference. Here, the main factor is the circumference, which governs the choice. It is also easy to select shoes. Often, this type of consumer obtains good comfort but has some extra space on the toes, due to the fact that he/she has to choose a larger size in view of the measurements in terms of girth.

3) Long length/small circumference. Here, the main factor is the length, which dictates the choice. Often this type of consumer also achieves good comfort, but the shoe length is as short as possible compared to the foot length. This means that this type of consumer has some extra space in the girth.

The above describes how the consumer shoe selection process is conventionally performed in consumers with normal feet. This is inconvenient and becomes even more inconvenient in the case of online shopping for shoes.

Fig. 7 illustrates an example of a last 700. Lasts are usually in wood, plastic or metal form that serve multiple functions in the industry. A shoe is designed on a last and produced on the last. The last provides an interior volume for the footwear. Lasts are also used in each processing stage in the factory. The last also imparts functionality to the shoe in terms of use and the intended use of the product.

The last represents the knowledge and expertise of that particular shoe type. It also represents information about the type of production, machinery, shoe parts and materials used, and information about shoe construction and design. Thus, industrial lasts are a result of long-term evolution.

The last also represents the image of the foot. Therefore, lasts are also a result of long-term evolution, in the sense that the basic shape fits as many people as possible within the intended consumer category.

In addition to the foot shape, the last has an additional shape that will allow room for certain areas (toes, etc.). From a design point of view, the last has many aspects (heel height, toe roll and toe shape).

Industrial lasts are not "disposable" pieces. This would be impractical because of the many requirements for lasts. In contrast, industrial lasts are a result of extensive experience and calibration.

Industrial lasts have been in the past 150 years. This means that, depending on the style and purpose of the footwear, each company has a large stock of current and previous lasts that can be modified and fine-tuned with the evolution of a given last and footwear.

Once the basic dimensions of the last are completed, the sizing table can be used to describe the grading of the last for different lengths and circumferences. The consumer selects length and girth via "shoe size" derived from these international sizing tables.

Examples of size tables include "french systems" (also known as "paris points" and "european union sizes", example sizes including … … 41, 42, 43 … …), "british sizes" (example sizes including … … 7, 71/2, 8, 81/2 …), american sizes, and montopoint systems. FIG. 6 illustrates an example diagram 600 of a shoe size system. More specifically, fig. 6 illustrates an example chart 600 of a french system. The last illustrated in fig. 7 has a size "42" in the french system, i.e. it has a circumference of 245mm and a length of 280 mm.

These sizing systems describe for a basic last how the last is graded in different lengths and girths. The length and circumference in the sizing system is in millimeters.

Footwear manufacturers use one of these international grading systems for their lasts. Otherwise, they cannot use the finished parts (sole, insole, stiffeners, tools, machinery, etc.) provided in the industry. In addition, by using these international grading tables, manufacturers may provide their shoes to shoe retailers so that the product will be compatible with other shoes provided by the same retailer.

The following example illustrates the manner in which a consumer may select a shoe from a shoe store. This example uses the french size system with a circumference of "7". The following three example consumers illustrate how a consumer selects a shoe from a given series of industrial shoes. They are all normal consumers with different length/circumference ratios.

The exemplary consumer "foot 1" has a length of 276mm and a girth of 244 mm. Thus, the most suitable size number for this particular model is the number "42".

The example consumer "foot 2" is 294mm in length and 244mm in circumference. Thus, the most suitable size number for this particular model is the number "45". In this case, length is the dominant factor, and circumference will be too loose. The consumer accepts this fact or selects another shoe model with a different length/circumference ratio.

An example consumer "foot 3" is 259mm in length and 244mm in circumference. Thus, the most suitable size number for this particular model is the number "42". In this case, the circumference is the dominant factor and there will be additional space for the toes. The consumer accepts this fact or selects another shoe model with a different length/circumference ratio.

The above illustrates how consumer shoe selection routinely occurs in shoe stores and why many pairs of shoes must typically be provided in the store. The above also illustrates the reason why it is difficult to purchase shoes via the internet.

FIG. 1 illustrates an example system 100 in which various embodiments of the present disclosure may be implemented. The example representation of the system 100 is shown depicting a foot measuring device 120 and a computing device 200, both of which a user 110 can use to measure his/her foot, for example, to find the most appropriate shoe or shoe size from a selection of standard shoe sizes.

The computing device 200 may include a digital camera 208, as shown in the example embodiment of FIG. 1. Alternatively, digital camera 208 may be implemented as a unit external to computing device 200 but communicatively connected to computing device 200 to allow captured images to be transmitted from digital camera 208 to computing device 200.

The system 100 also includes a server device 140, and the server device 140 may include a database 145, the database 145 including one or more shoe size tables. Network 130 may connect server device 140 and computing device 200 to each other. The network 130 may be a centralized network or the network 130 may include multiple sub-networks that may provide direct communication between entities or may provide indirect communication between entities. Examples of the network 130 include a wireless network, a wired network, and a combination thereof. Some non-exhaustive examples of wireless networks may include Wireless Local Area Networks (WLANs), bluetooth or wireless personal area networks (Zigbee networks), cellular networks, and so forth. Some non-exhaustive examples of wired networks may include a Local Area Network (LAN), ethernet, fiber optic network, and the like. An example of a combination of wired and wireless networks may include the internet. Examples of server device 140 include, but are not limited to, a desktop computer running the service, a laptop computer running the service, and/or a web server running the service.

Alternatively/additionally, the computing device 200 itself may include a database 206 that may include, for example, one or more shoe size tables, as shown in fig. 2.

Computing device 200 is configured to execute software 205 including a foot measurement application 2051. Computing device 200 may include, for example, a mobile phone, a smartphone, a tablet, a smart watch, a wearable device, a smart device, or any handheld or portable device with the ability to run a foot measurement application.

Fig. 3A and 3B illustrate a device 120 capable of implementing foot measurements of the example embodiments described herein.

The apparatus 120 for foot measurement comprises a base plate 121, the base plate 121 being configured to receive a foot to be measured. As further illustrated by the diagram 400 of fig. 4, the foot has a first length 401 from the tip of the longest toe to the rear of the heel, and a first perimeter 402 around the ball of the foot's metatarsals. More specifically, the first perimeter 402 is the perimeter around the joint between the toes and the metatarsals. Thus, the first perimeter 402 represents the maximum perimeter around the foot. The first perimeter 402 is also referred to as the circumference.

The substrate 121 has a front end 121A and a rear end 121B that are spaced apart from each other by a first distance 125. In other words, the first distance 125 represents a length dimension of the device 120. The first distance 125 is greater than the first length 401 to allow comfortable positioning of the foot to be measured on the substrate. Similarly, the width of the apparatus 120 may be greater than the width of the foot to be measured. The rear end 121B of the base plate 121 is configured to receive the rear of the heel of the foot to be measured, thereby enabling the first length 401 to be determined based on the first distance 125 and the second distance 126 between the front end 121A of the base plate 121A and the tip of the longest toe of the foot being located. The foot to be measured may be positioned on the base plate 121 such that the longitudinal axis of the foot to be measured is generally aligned with the longitudinal axis of the base plate 121 and the rear portion of the heel of the foot to be measured is placed against the rear end portion 121B of the base plate 121.

In an example, the apparatus 120 may include one or more side panels, for example, side panels that are substantially perpendicular to the base panel 121, as can be seen in fig. 3B. The device 120 may be manufactured, for example, from cardboard, plastic, etc. The device 120 may be foldable, for example, to allow for simple and efficient storage and delivery (such as in an envelope) to the user 110.

The apparatus 120 may also include a heel support or abutment 122 provided at the rear end 121B of the base plate 121 to assist in positioning the foot to be measured on the base plate 121. Heel support 122 may be arranged substantially perpendicular to base plate 121, for example such that: when base plate 121 is horizontal, heel support 122 is substantially vertical.

The device 120 comprises a single circumference measuring ring 123. That is, the circumference measuring ring 123 is the only circumference measuring ring in the device 120. The circumference measuring ring 123 comprises a first portion 123A of elastic material and a second portion 123B of substantially inelastic material. When the first portion 123A is not stretched (i.e., when the circumference measuring ring 123 is empty, with no foot inserted therein), the circumference measuring ring 123 has a second circumference that is smaller than the first circumference 402. The circumference measuring ring 123 is configured to encircle the foot to be measured at the ball of the foot to be measured, thereby enabling the first circumference 402 to be determined based on the amount of stretch of the first portion 123A.

In one embodiment, the first portion 123A of the circumference measuring ring 123 may have a first visual characteristic and the second portion 123B of the circumference measuring ring 123 may have a second visual characteristic, such that the first visual characteristic is visually distinguishable from the second visual characteristic. For example, the first and second visual features may include contrast, color, brightness, and/or patterns. In an example, the second portion 123B may be substantially lighter than the first portion 123A, as shown in the embodiments of fig. 3A and 3B, or the first portion 123A may be substantially lighter than the second portion 123B.

Optionally, the substrate 121 may include one or more mating indicia 124A-124F to aid in determining the first length 401 and/or determining the first perimeter 402.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram of a computing device 200 capable of implementing example embodiments described herein.

The computing device 200 includes one or more processors 202 and one or more memories 204 containing computer program code 205. Computing device 200 may also include a digital camera 208, an input/output module 212, and/or a communication interface 214.

Although the communication device 200 is depicted as including only one processor 202, the communication device 200 may include more processors. In one embodiment, memory 204 is capable of storing instructions 205, such as an operating system and various application programs, including application programs 2051. Further, memory 204 may include a storage or database 206 that may be used to store one or more shoe size tables, for example.

Further, the processor 202 is capable of executing the stored instructions 205. In one embodiment, processor 202 may be implemented as a multi-core processor, a single-core processor, or a combination of one or more multi-core processors and one or more single-core processors. For example, the processor 202 may be implemented as one or more of various processing means such as a coprocessor, a microprocessor, a controller, a Digital Signal Processor (DSP), processing circuitry with or without an accompanying DSP, or various other processing means including integrated circuits such as, for example, an Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC), a Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA), a microcontroller unit (MCU), a hardware accelerator, a special-purpose computer chip, or the like. In one embodiment, the processor 202 may be configured to perform hard-coded functions. In one embodiment, the processor 202 is implemented as an executor of software instructions, where the instructions may specifically configure the processor 202 to perform the algorithms and/or operations described herein when the instructions are executed.

Memory 204 may be implemented as one or more volatile memory devices, one or more non-volatile memory devices, and/or a combination of one or more volatile and non-volatile memory devices. For example, the memory 204 may be implemented as a semiconductor memory (e.g., a mask ROM, PROM (programmable ROM), EPROM (erasable PROM), flash ROM, RAM (random access memory), etc.).

An input/output module (hereinafter "I/O module") 212 is configured to facilitate providing output and/or receiving input. The I/O module 212 is configured to communicate with the processor 202 and the memory 204. Examples of I/O module 212 include, but are not limited to, an input interface and/or an output interface. Examples of input interfaces may include, but are not limited to, a keyboard, a touch screen, soft keys, and the like. Examples of output interfaces may include, but are not limited to, displays such as light emitting diode displays, Thin Film Transistor (TFT) displays, liquid crystal displays, Active Matrix Organic Light Emitting Diode (AMOLED) displays, and the like. In an example embodiment, the processor 202 may include I/O circuitry configured to control at least some functions of one or more elements of the I/O module 212, such as, for example, a display and/or the like, and the speaker 212 and/or microphone 212. The processor 202 and/or I/O circuitry may be configured to control one or more functions of one or more elements of the I/O module 212 through computer program instructions, e.g., software and/or firmware, stored on a memory accessible to the processor 202, e.g., memory 204, and/or the like.

In one embodiment, the I/O module 212 may be configured to provide a User Interface (UI) configured to provide options or any other display to a user of the computing device 200. Additionally, the I/O module 212 may be integrated with a mechanism configured to receive input from a user of the computing device 200.

The communication interface 214 may enable the computing device 200 to communicate with other devices. In one embodiment, the various components of the computing device 200, such as the processor 202, memory 204, I/O module 212, and communication interface 214 are configured to communicate with each other via or through the centralized circuitry 210. Centralized circuitry 210 may be, among other things, various devices configured to provide or enable communication between components 202-214 of computing device 200. In some embodiments, centralized circuitry 210 may be a central Printed Circuit Board (PCB) such as a motherboard, communicator board, or logic board. The centralized circuitry 210 may also or alternatively include other Printed Circuit Assemblies (PCAs) or communication channel mediums.

The computing apparatus 200 as illustrated and hereinafter described is merely an example of a device that may benefit from embodiments of the present invention and, therefore, the computing apparatus 200 should not be taken to limit the scope of the present invention. It should be noted that computing device 200 may include fewer or more components than those depicted in fig. 2.

As described above, the system 100 for footmeasurements includes a device 120 for footmeasurements. System 100 also includes a digital camera 208, digital camera 208 configured to capture images of a foot positioned on device 120. The image is captured such that the image covers at least the stretched first portion 123A and the second distance 126 of the circumference measuring ring 123.

The system further comprises a computing device 200, the computing device 200 comprising a processor 202 and at least one memory 204 comprising computer program code 205. The at least one memory 204 and the computer program code 205 are configured to, with the at least one processor 202, cause the computing apparatus 200 to obtain information regarding the first distance 125, the second circumference, and the unstretched length of the first portion 123A. For example, at least some of the first distance 125, the second circumference, and the unstretched length of the first portion 123A may be stored in at least one memory 204 (e.g., in the database 206), with such information obtained from the memory 204. For example, at least some of the first distance 125, the second perimeter, and the unstretched length of the first portion 123A may be stored in a location external to the computing device 200 (such as the server device 140 and/or the database 145) from which such information is obtained. When stored in the external location, at least some of the first distance 125, the second perimeter, and the unstretched length of the first portion 123A may be obtained from the external location each time such information is needed, or at least some of them may be obtained from the external location at a time and then stored locally in the computing device 200. In one embodiment, obtaining at least some of the first distance 125, the second circumference, and the unstretched length of the first portion 123A may include obtaining them via input from the user 110, after which at least some of them may be stored locally or externally.

The at least one memory 204 and the computer program code 205 are further configured to, with the at least one processor 202, cause the computing apparatus 200 to receive an image of a foot positioned on the device 120 captured by the digital camera 208.

The at least one memory 204 and the computer program code 205 are further configured to, with the at least one processor 202, cause the computing apparatus 200 to identify the second distance 126 and the stretched length of the first portion 123A from the received image. As described above, the second distance 126 is the distance between the front end 121A of the base plate 121 and the tip of the longest toe of the foot being positioned. Since the captured and received image covers the area, it may be determined from the image, e.g. using any suitable image analysis software or the like.

In one embodiment, to identify the stretched length of the first portion 123A from the captured and received images, the difference between a first visual characteristic of the first portion 123A of the circumference measurement ring 123 and a second visual characteristic of the second portion 123B of the circumference measurement ring 123 may be used to distinguish the first portion 123A from the second portion 123B. As noted above, for example, the second portion 123B may be substantially lighter than the first portion 123A, as shown in the embodiment of fig. 3A and 3B, or the first portion 123A may be substantially lighter than the second portion 123B. Since the stretched first portion 123A can be distinguished from the second portion 123B (and the foot and substrate 121 positioned) in the captured and received image, the stretched length of the first portion 123A can be identified using any suitable image analysis software or the like.

The at least one memory 204 and the computer program code 205 are further configured to, with the at least one processor 202, cause the computing apparatus 200 to determine a first length 401 (i.e., a length of the foot from the tip of the longest toe to the back of the heel) based on a difference between the obtained first distance 125 (i.e., the length of the device 120) and the identified second distance 126.

The at least one memory 204 and the computer program code 205 are further configured to, with the at least one processor 202, cause the computing apparatus 200 to determine a first circumference 402 (i.e., a circumference around the ball of the metatarsal of the foot, i.e., a circumference around the joint between the toes and the metatarsals) based on, for example, a sum of the obtained difference between the unstretched length of the first portion 123A and the identified stretched length of the first portion 123A and the obtained second circumference.

Optionally, the at least one memory 204 and the computer program code 205 may be further configured to, with the at least one processor 202, cause the computing device 200 to access a predetermined shoe size table (e.g., located in the database 206 or the database 145, as described above), compare the determined first length and first circumference to corresponding data in the accessed shoe size table, and determine a shoe size for the foot based on the comparison. The shoe size table may include, for example, a french shoe size table, an english shoe size table, and the like.

At least some of the embodiments of the system 100 store the input circumference and length in millimeters. Further, at least some of the embodiments of the system 100 may be used to measure the length and circumference of a consumer's feet in a store or home, allowing for the incorporation of the proper product with the proper feet. At least some of the embodiments allow for foot measurements from the same position (length and circumference) of the industrial last grading. Whatever the sizing system, when the circumference and length of the foot are obtained in millimeters, they can be compared to the circumference and length of any industrial last.

Fig. 5 illustrates an example flow diagram of a method 500 of foot measurement according to an example embodiment.

At operation 501, information regarding the first distance 125, the second perimeter, and the unstretched length of the first portion of the foot measuring device 120 is obtained by the computing device 200.

At operation 502, an image of a foot positioned on the apparatus 120 captured using the digital camera 208 is received at the computing device 200. The image covers at least the stretched first portion 123A and the second distance 126 of the circumference measuring ring 123. It should be noted that operation 502 may alternatively be performed before operation 501.

At operation 503, the second distance 126 and the stretched length of the first portion 123A are identified from the received image by the computing device 200.

At operation 504, the first length 401 is determined by the computing device 200 based on a difference between the obtained first distance 125 and the identified second distance 126.

At operation 505, the first perimeter 402 is determined by the computing device 200 based on a sum of the obtained difference between the unstretched length of the first portion 123A and the identified stretched length of the first portion 123A and the obtained second perimeter.

At optional operation 506, a predetermined shoe size table is accessed by the computing device 200.

At optional operation 507, the determined first length and first perimeter are compared, by computing device 200, to corresponding data in the accessed shoe size table.

At optional operation 508, a shoe size of the foot is determined by the computing device 200 based on the comparison.

The method 500 may be performed by the computing device 200 of fig. 2. Other features of the method 500 are directly derived from the functions and parameters of the computing device 200 and the apparatus 120, and thus are not repeated here. The method 500 may be performed by a computer program.

The exemplary embodiments can include, for example, any suitable computer apparatus or the like capable of executing the processes of the exemplary embodiments. The devices and subsystems of the exemplary embodiments can communicate with each other using any suitable protocol and can be implemented using one or more programmed computer systems or devices.

One or more interface mechanisms may be used with the illustrative embodiments, including, for example, internet access, any suitable form of telecommunications (e.g., voice, modem, etc.), wireless communications media, and the like. For example, the communication networks or links employed may include one or more satellite communication networks, wireless communication networks, cellular communication networks, 3G communication networks, 4G communication networks, Public Switched Telephone Networks (PSTN), Packet Data Networks (PDN), the internet, intranets, combinations thereof, and the like.

It is to be understood that the exemplary embodiments are for exemplary purposes, as many variations of the specific hardware used to implement the exemplary embodiments are possible, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the hardware and/or software art(s). For example, the functionality of one or more of the components of the exemplary embodiments may be implemented via one or more hardware and/or software devices.

The exemplary embodiments can store information related to various processes described herein. This information may be stored in one or more memories such as a hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, RAM, etc. One or more databases may store information used to implement exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The database may be organized using data structures (e.g., records, tables, arrays, fields, graphs, trees, lists, etc.) included in one or more memories or storage devices listed herein. The processes described with respect to the exemplary embodiments can include appropriate data structures for storing data collected and/or generated by the processes of the devices and subsystems of the exemplary embodiments in one or more databases.

All or a portion of the example embodiments may be conveniently implemented using one or more general purpose processors, microprocessors, digital signal processors, microcontrollers, etc., programmed according to the teachings of the example embodiments of the present invention, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the computer and/or software art(s). Appropriate software can be readily prepared by programmers of ordinary skill based on the teachings of the exemplary embodiments, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the software art. In addition, as will be appreciated by those skilled in the electrical arts, the exemplary embodiments may be implemented by the preparation of application specific integrated circuits or by interconnecting an appropriate network of conventional component circuits. Thus, the exemplary embodiments are not limited to any specific combination of hardware and/or software.

The exemplary embodiments of this invention stored on any one or combination of computer readable media can include software for controlling the components of the exemplary embodiments, for driving the components of the exemplary embodiments, for enabling the components of the exemplary embodiments to interact with a human user, and the like. Such software may include, but is not limited to, device drivers, firmware, operating systems, development tools, application software, and the like. Such computer-readable media may also include the computer program product of an embodiment of the present invention for performing all or a portion (if processing is distributed) of the processing performed in implementing the invention. The computer code devices of exemplary embodiments of the present invention may include any suitable interpretable or executable code mechanism, including but not limited to scripts, interpretable programs, Dynamic Link Libraries (DLLs), Java classes and applets, complete executable programs, common passenger request broker architecture (CORBA) passengers, and the like. Furthermore, portions of the processing of the exemplary embodiments of the present invention may be distributed for better performance, reliability, cost, and the like.

As mentioned above, components of the exemplary embodiments can include computer-readable media or memory for holding instructions programmed according to the teachings of the invention and for holding data structures, tables, records, and/or other data described herein. Computer-readable media may include any suitable media that participates in providing instructions to a processor for execution. Such a medium may take many forms, including but not limited to, non-volatile media, and the like. Non-volatile media can include, for example, optical or magnetic disks, magneto-optical disks, and the like. Volatile media may include dynamic memory and the like. Common forms of computer-readable media may include, for example, a floppy disk, a flexible disk, a hard disk, or any other suitable medium from which a computer can read.

While the invention has been described in connection with a number of exemplary embodiments and implementations, the invention is not so limited, but covers various modifications and equivalent arrangements, which fall within the purview of prospective claims.

Claims

1. A foot measurement device (120) characterized by comprising:

a base plate (121), the base plate (121) being configured to receive a foot to be measured, the foot having a first length (401) from a tip of a longest toe to a rear of a heel and a first perimeter (402) around a ball of a metatarsal of the foot, and the base plate (121) having a front end (121A) and a rear end (121B) at a first distance (125) from each other, the first distance (125) being greater than the first length (401), the rear end (121B) of the base plate (121) being configured to receive the rear of the heel of the foot to be measured, such that the first length (401) can be determined based on the first distance (125) and a second distance (126) between the front end (121A) of the base plate (121) and the tip of the longest toe of the foot being located; and

a single circumference measuring ring (123), the circumference measuring ring (123) comprising a first portion (123A) of elastic material and a second portion (123B) of substantially inelastic material, the circumference measuring ring (123) having a second circumference when unstretched that is smaller than the first circumference (402), and the circumference measuring ring (123) being configured to encircle a foot to be measured at a ball of the foot to enable the first circumference (402) to be determined based on an amount of stretch of the first portion (123A),

wherein the first portion (123A) of the circumference measuring ring (123) has a first visual characteristic and the second portion (123B) of the circumference measuring ring (123) has a second visual characteristic, the first visual characteristic being visually distinguishable from the second visual characteristic.

2. The device (120) of claim 1, wherein the first and second visual characteristics comprise at least one of contrast, color, brightness, or pattern.

3. The apparatus (120) of any of claims 1-2, wherein the substrate (121) includes one or more mating indicia (124A-124F) to facilitate at least one of determining the first length (401) or determining the first perimeter (402).

4. Apparatus (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising a heel support (122) provided at the rear end (121B) of the base plate (121) to assist in positioning the foot to be measured on the base plate (121).

5. A system (100) for foot measurement, comprising:

the device (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 4;

a digital camera (208), the digital camera (208) configured to capture an image of a foot positioned on the device (120), the image covering at least the stretched first portion (123A) of the circumferential measurement loop (123) and the second distance (126); and

a computing apparatus (200), the computing apparatus (200) comprising at least one processor (202) and at least one memory (204) comprising computer program code (205), the at least one memory (204) and the computer program code (205) configured to, with the at least one processor (202), cause the computing apparatus (200) at least to:

obtaining information about the first distance (125), the second circumference and an unstretched length of the first portion (123A);

receiving the captured image;

identifying the second distance (126) and a stretched length of the first portion (123A) from the received image, and in identifying the stretched length of the first portion (123A), distinguishing the first portion (123A) from the second portion (123B) of the circumference measurement ring (123) using a difference between the first visual feature of the first portion (123A) and the second visual feature of the second portion (123B) of the circumference measurement ring (123);

determining the first length (401) based on a difference between the obtained first distance (125) and the identified second distance (126); and is

Determining the first circumference (402) based on a sum of the obtained difference between the obtained unstretched length of the first portion (123A) and the identified stretched length of the first portion (123A) and the obtained second circumference.

6. The system (100) according to claim 5, wherein the at least one memory (204) and the computer program code (205) are further configured to, with the at least one processor (202), cause the computing apparatus (200) to:

accessing a predetermined shoe size table;

comparing the determined first length (401) and first perimeter (402) with corresponding data in the accessed shoe size table; and is

Determining a shoe size for the foot based on the comparison.

7. A method (500) of foot measurement, comprising:

obtaining (501), by a computing device (200), information about a first distance (125), a second circumference, and an unstretched length of a first portion (123A) of an apparatus (120) according to any one of claims 1 to 4;

receiving (502), at the computing device (200), an image of a foot positioned on the apparatus (120) captured using a digital camera (208), the image covering at least the stretched first portion (123A) of the circumference measuring ring (123) and the second distance (126);

identifying (503), by the computing device (200), the second distance (126) and a stretched length of the first portion (123A) from the received image, wherein identifying (503) the stretched length of the first portion (123A) comprises distinguishing the first portion (123A) from the second portion (123B) of the circumference measurement ring (123) using a difference between the first visual feature of the first portion (123A) and the second visual feature of the second portion (123B) of the circumference measurement ring (123);

determining (504), by the computing device (200), the first length (401) based on a difference between the obtained first distance (125) and the identified second distance (126); and

determining (505), by the computing device (200), the first perimeter (402) based on a sum of the obtained difference between the obtained unstretched length of the first portion (123A) and the identified stretched length of the first portion (123A) and the obtained second perimeter.

8. The method (500) of claim 7, further comprising:

accessing (506), by the computing device (200), a predetermined shoe size table;

comparing (507), by the computing device (200), the determined first length (401) and first perimeter (402) to corresponding data in the accessed shoe size table; and

determining (508), by the computing device (200), a shoe size of the foot based on the comparison.